Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly set to sign a top class CB
The Pittsburgh Steelers could sign a proven veteran in free agency.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking for a partner opposite Joey Porter Jr., and despite having Patrick Peterson on the roster, they will most likely add a younger option via free agency or the NFL Draft.
Former Washington Commanders cornerback Kendall Fuller is being mentioned as a potential fit, and ESPN believes he is the right signing for Pittsburgh.
“The Steelers have a need at cornerback, especially if Patrick Peterson is moved to safety full-time.” Last season, Fuller was the Commanders’ only cornerback with strong coverage numbers. His coverage DVOA was comparable to that of L’Jarius Sneed and Marshon Lattimore, but he allowed a lot of touchdowns. In Pittsburgh, he could play opposite Joey Porter Jr., taking the easier assignment while Porter focuses on the opponent’s top receiver. “Fuller should be good enough to allow Pittsburgh’s safeties to shade towards Porter’s man,” ESPN writes.
Fuller, 29, has started 93 games in his career, including six years in Washington and two in Kansas City. He has 16 interceptions, with five coming in the last two years. In 15 games last season, he had two interceptions, nine pass deflections, and a 68.8% completion rate.
The Steelers are open to moving Peterson to safety but have not made a decision just yet. Even if they don’t, they typically use three outside cornerbacks and could expect Fuller to start while Peterson plays elsewhere on the field.
According to Spotrac, his market value over three years is $42.3 million, with an average of $14.1 million per season. The Steelers currently have approximately $13 million in available cap space, but they could add more through cuts and restructures.
Expect Fuller to be an option, and if the financial side of the situation works out, Pittsburgh may bring in the longtime starter.